A new radio program
launched in the Palm Beach Diocese in June with a focus on shedding
light on pro-life issues, and sharing ways to get involved in promoting
the culture of life in the not-so-pro-life world. Organizers believe the
program may be the only one of its kind in Florida, if not the United
States, that is broadcast from a site across the street from an abortion
clinic. "We are doing battle on the frontlines," said Anne Lotierzo, a
parishioner of St. Joseph Parish in Stuart, who hosts "CrossRoads" with
Duane Berreth, a parishioner of St. Mark the Evangelist in Fort Pierce.
Berreth, a grand Knight of Columbus, heads the parish's respect life
ministry. "We like being at the front lines. That is where the battle
is," Lotierzo said in an interview with the Florida Catholic, Palm
Beach's diocesan newspaper. "CrossRoads" airs on WJPP 100.1 FM (Prince
of Peace Radio) that reaches listeners in areas of Stuart, Palm City,
Port St. Lucie and Fort Pierce. "I think the program idea is great,"
said Eva Daniel-Barrera, a parishioner of St. Mark the Evangelist. "The
program will let everybody know about current pro-life issues. There are
a lot of concerns today."
I am just beginning to dive into the beautiful, ancient devotion to the Five Wounds of Jesus, and I wanted to share a bit of the journey with you. It can feel a little overwhelming at first to look at the Crucifix this closely, but I’ve found such a gentle guide in St. Bernard of Clairvaux . In his Jubilee Rhythm on the Passion, Bernard doesn't treat the wounds of Jesus as distant historical facts or sights to be avoided. Instead, he approaches them with the tenderness of a friend, speaking directly to the feet, hands, side, and face of our Lord. For someone like me who is just starting out, his rhythm teaches that prayer isn't just about reciting words; it’s a holy hide-and-seek. Bernard invites us to literally hide ourselves within these wounds, seeing them as clefts in the rock where we can find shelter when our own lives feel turbulent or heavy. As I start this process, I’ve been practicing what I call gazing and greeting. Following Bernard’s lead, I look at the Crucifix an...